europe safari parks

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Where the wild things are: the best safari parks in Europe

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on March 27, 2022 |

Have you ever caught a glimpse of a lion lazing under a tree? Or seen the ocean turning black as a sperm whale glides under your boat? Seeing an animal in its natural habitat can be the best bit of your trip (and provides dreamy photo potential). The good news is that you definitely don’t have to fork out for a long-haul ticket to have a brush with Mother Nature. Get planning your trip with the best safari parks in Europe !

Best safari parks in Europe:

• The Azores, Portugal
• Calimani Park, Romania
• Camargue National Park, France
• Merfelder Bruch Nature Reserve, Germany
• Skinnskatteberg, Sweden
• Somiedo Natural Park, Spain, Asturias
• Białowieża, Poland
• Coa Valley, Portugal

1. Whales, The Azores

When you see pictures of The Azores’ lush green pastures and volcanic lakes, you could be forgiven for thinking that this string of nine islands is in the tropics. In fact, it’s a region of sunny Portugal! Between April and October, some of the ocean’s most gentle giants glide by on their yearly migration, including blue, fin and sei whales. Sperm whales live in the islands all year round, gorging themselves on giant squid and growing up to 20m long, while humpbacks tend to appear in October.

📷   Isa Jokela-Gomes  

• Best time to visit: May to October
• Wildlife: dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and many bird species
• Nearby hostels: Ponta Delgada Hostel, Green Island Hostel

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2. Lynx, Romania, Calimani Park

With its epic ridges, gravity-defying fir trees and mountainous peaks, Calimani Park is one of Europe’s last great wildernesses. Stags, wolves and eagles all roam freely, but most elusive of all is the Eurasian lynx, a fur-ocious wild cat that looks like a cross between a leopard and your average tabby. Between February and April, heavy snowfall makes this usually shy predator easier to track, with a good chance of seeing them at dawn or dusk.

📷  Uriel Soberanes

• Wildlife: brown bears, lynx, wolves, and deer
• Nearby hostels: Călimani Lodge, Mountain River Cabins

3. Flamingos, France, Camargue National Park

Soar above the Camargue National Park in a plane and you could be forgiven for thinking that this stretch of marshland just south of Marseille is bright pink. In fact, it’s home to tens of thousands of flamingos, particularly during the June to September breeding season when fluff-ball chicks hatch and take their first wobbly steps out of the nest. All together now: “Aaawww”!

📷  Lachlan Gowen  

• Wildlife: flamingos, horses, bulls, and birds
• Nearby hostels: Mas des Cigales, Le Castelet des Alpilles

4. Wild Horses, Germany, Merfelder Bruch Nature Reserve

Spot a Dülmen Pony frolicking in the Merfelder Bruch Nature Reserve and you’re pretty much looking back in time in one of the best safari parks in Europe. The last truly wild horses in Europe, their family tree can be traced back more than 700 years. Although they live without human intervention for most of the year, the young stallions are rounded up and auctioned off on the last Saturday of May to prevent the herd becoming bigger than the reservation can handle. Watching the wranglers gather them with their bare hands is quite the show, and the money raised goes towards protecting the rest of the herd.

📷  Isabella Jusková  

Base yourself at H.ostel Münster , which has an industrial chic vibe and a prime location in the medieval old town.

• Best time to visit: May to September
• Wildlife: wild horses
• Nearby hostels: Haus Mariengrund, Pension Haus Waldesruh

5. Wolves, Sweden, Skinnskatteberg

What could be more adrenaline-inducing than watching the moon rise above a Swedish forest while the eerie howls of the local wolf pack echo between the tree trunks? In Skinnskatteberg, just two hours from Stockholm, you can spend a night tracking these fierce creatures with an expert guide. Afterwards, listen to local folk stories around the campfire and spend the night under canvas. Visit between June and September for the best chance of spotting these ferocious canines in one of the best safari parks in Europe.

📷  Eva Blue  

When you’re ready to leave the wild, check into Generator Stockholm , a well-located hideaway with serious design credentials.

• Best time to visit: June to August
• Wildlife: bears, wolves, and moose
• Nearby hostels: Skinnskattebergs Vandrarhem, Kolarbyn Ecolodge

6. Brown bears, Spain, Somiedo Natural Park

You may associate bears with the wilds of North America, but Europe’s biggest population can be found in the stunning Cantabrian mountains of Asturias – less than a two hour flight from London. It’s not at all unusual to see mothers and their cubs ambling through the Somiedo Natural Park, particularly during April, May and June when they’re just emerging after the chilly winter and on the hunt for honey.

📷  Anthony Renovato  

• Best time to visit: June to September
• Wildlife: brown bears, wolves, and wildcats
• Nearby hostels: Casa Rural La Solana, Albergue de Torrestío

7. Bison, Poland

10,000 years ago, most of north-eastern Europe was densely covered in primal forest. Today, Poland’s Białowieża area is the last significant tract left. It’s home to more than 900 European bison, nicknamed ‘the kings of the wilderness’ because of their bulk. Sadly, they were hunted to extinction at the start of the 20th century, but have been reintroduced with the help of a careful breeding programme. January to March is the best time to spot Europe’s heaviest land animal, and a walk through this ancient forest in the snow is a magical experience. Just remember to pack your coat as temperatures can dip to -5 degrees… brrr!

📷  Luuk Timmermans  

• Wildlife: European bison, wolves, and lynx
• Nearby hostels: Białowieża Hostel, Pokoje Gościnne u Karoliny

8. Egyptian vultures, Portugal, Coa Valley

The hills of the Coa Valley in north-east Portugal are covered with startling shades of citrus yellow and parsley green, making for some seriously pretty hiking. Even higher than the hilltop caves, which are still scrawled with mysterious paintings from paleolithic times, you’ll find the craggy nests of Egyptian vultures. They’re instantly recognisable by their bright yellow faces and the fact that they’re the smallest vultures in Europe, typically weighing just 2kg. Between November and March they spend the winter in Africa and fly 7,000km on the round trip. Keep your eyes peeled for other airborne icons such as golden, griffin and Bonelli’s eagles too.

The nearest major city is Porto and it’s full of character. Porto Spot Hostel is in a historic Estado Novo building with several unique and beautifully designed rooms.

• Wildlife: ibex, wild boar, and birds
• Nearby hostels: Casa da Cisterna, Casa das Tílias

Have you spotted any of these incredible creatures in the wild? Or perhaps you have more tips about the best safari parks in Europe? Let us know in the comments!

About the author

Imogen Lepere is a travel writer with a soft spot for anything quirky, surprising and incongruous. Her adventures include teaching in Kathmandu, riding the Trans-Mongolian railway and living with a nudist colony in Greece. She currently splits her time between London and Melbourne, where she can normally be found with a glass of wine in one hand and a pen in the other. Read more of her work on her blog  or follow her on  Instagram .

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15 Best Zoos in Europe for Families (+ 2 Safari Parks!)

We always wanted to travel around the world to meet new people, get to know cultures, and see beautiful sights. Now that we are traveling to other countries like Cuba and Colombia with kids , we want this experience to be an educational adventure too! As much as we enjoy seeing animals in their natural habitat, our kids love an occasional zoo visit as well – and their excitement, whenever they see animals up close, makes us happy as well. Along with other families, here are our experiences and recommendations for the best zoos in Europe.

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The Best Zoos in Europe to Visit with the Family

#1 colchester zoo, uk.

Colchester Zoo in Essex , UK is a great zoo in Europe. It’s home to over 180 species. The zoo is divided into 36 different areas. One of the most impressive exhibits is ‘Kingdom of the Wild’. This large outdoor paddock has giraffes, ostriches, rhinos, zebras, and great kudu’s all living together, similar to how they would in the African savanna. There are also additional elephant and giraffe feeding experiences for an additional cost which goes towards the zoo’s operational fund. These are limited and act as part of the animal’s enrichment and regular diet.

Chimpanzee Lookout and Rajang’s Forest are two other awesome exhibits that have recently been renovated.

The Colchester Zoo is ethical, meeting the standards of the Zoo Licensing Act. It is also part of EAZA (European Associations of Zoos and Aquaria) which focuses on education, conservation, and research.

It’s part of multiple breeding programmes and has its charity ‘Action For The Wild’ which supports conservation projects worldwide, including the UmPhafa Reserve in South Africa.

An average visit can take between 4 to 6 hours to see everything at a leisurely pace. There’s a large parking area, playgrounds, gift shop, restaurants, and food kiosks.

Contributed by Kylie from Essex Explored

Get tickets to Colchester Zoo for only €31.36 ! The zoo is open from 09:30 – 17:30 . If you want to go inside the zoo again on the same day, get the wristband at the exit.

#2 Salzburg Zoo, Austria

One of the best zoos in the world is located in the Austrian city of Salzburg: Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn.

This zoo can look back on a long history, because already in the 15th century this was a game park of the prince archbishops.

The complex with the castle, the fountains, and the zoo was then completed in 1619.

During a visit, you will discover about 1,500 animals and 150 species of animals from different continents.

Beautiful and a real highlight is the Africa part, a savannah-like complex with a lion house.

In Eurasia, you will be amazed by alpine ibexes and brown bears, in America you will find sloths and even lowland tapirs, and in Australia under Parma wallabies await you.

What is also special is the size of the zoo. On an area of 14 hectares the animals are offered a lot of space, and also the enclosures are rather open.

The effort is to create a natural habitat, such as alluvial landscapes, rocks, and steppes, which is also felt by the visitor.

Half a day at the zoo is almost too little, especially if you want to visit the different feeding times. It’s best to plan a whole day at Salzburg Zoo.

Contributed by Martina from Placesof Juma

An adult  ticket to Salzburg Zoo   costs €12,50 , while visitors ages 15 to 19 only need to pay €8 . For kids 4 to 14 years old, their tickets only cost €5,50 . If you stay in Salzburg for a day or 3 days, get the  Salzburg Card  for only €30! You get free and discounted access to over 20 attractions , including the Salzburg Zoo!

#3 Pairi Daiza, Belgium

Pairi Daizi in Belgium was recently voted the best zoo in Europe and the most beautiful zoo in the Benelux! It goes without saying that a visit to Pairi Daiza is definitely a good idea!

This 65-hectare domain is the biggest zoo in Belgium and has no less than 7000 animals that you can pay a visit to. It’s also one of the largest zoos in Europe. Their most famous inhabitants are the giant pandas – it’s the first and only zoo in Belgium where you can see them and it’s one of the only zoos with pandas in Europe.

The entire domain is beautifully decorated and well-maintained, making it not only a nice trip to see animals but also a great place to walk around and enjoy the surroundings.

You can definitely spend an entire day at Pairi Daiza park. In fact, we spend an entire day ( ok, I was pregnant and couldn’t walk that easily ) and only managed to see about half!

One of the best things to do in the official Best European Zoo is to book a night at the park. The most special rooms offer an exclusive view over a certain group of animals. We’re a big fan of the full moon lodges. These little hobbit houses have a large window overlooking the play domain of the wolves and the bears. But you can also book a night with the polar bears or the tigers.

Contributed by Babs from Next Stop Belgium

The zoo is open from 10am to 6pm every day (except for a couple of weeks from mid January to mid February). You can find Pairi Daiza near the Cambron-Casteau train station on the Ath-Mons line! Tickets for 12 years old and above costs €37 and kids between 4 to 11 years old costs €32 . Children under 3 years old get free access while visitors over 60 years old get a discounted rate of €35. You can also get a season pass that you can use for 11 months! For more details about their tickets and resort, visit Pairi Daiza’s website .

#4 Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, UK

In the heart of the Cotswolds, in England, you’ll find Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens. A half-day visit provides a varied experience of a safari park drive and a walking tour. Most of the animals roam freely in large moated enclosures centered around a beautiful Gothic Style Manor House. The lack of fencing allows you to enjoy non-obtrusive observation. 

Accented with pristine flower borders and manicured gardens, the Bradwell Grove Estate is reminiscent of nearby Sudeley Castle , without the animals. Animal species include the typical lions, giraffes, rhinos, and zebras. However, the park has more unusual small mammals such as wolverines, mongooses, lemurs, meerkats, and red pandas. 

In recent years, the wildlife park has contributed to conserving some endangered species. Of its over 250 animal varieties, 40 of them are rare. Its Madagascar exhibit features some endangered lemur breeds. Some of these breeds are part of breeding programs to prevent declining numbers. 

In 2013, the park formed the Cotswold Wildlife Park Conservation Trust. The charity aims to protect animals and their endangered terrains. Money raised from various sources helps fund their park’s endangered habitats and supports causes that preserve natural environments. 

For over 50 years, park visitors have enjoyed one of the largest collections of reptiles in the United Kingdom. A park favorite, the giant tortoises greet guests on the lawns in front of the manor house. 

Contributed by Karen from Forever Karen

The Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens open from 10am to 4 or 6 pm. Ticket prices start at £78.00 for adults while tickets for children 3 to 16 years old and seniors 65 and over only cost £55.00. If going with a family of 4 people, you can choose the family ticket for £250.00 , which covers 2 adults and 2 children. For additional access for a child in the family ticket, you need to add £50.00 at the  Costwold Wildlife Park and Gardens website .

#5 Copenhagen Zoo, Denmark

Copenhagen Zoo or Zoologisk Have Kobenhavn , is one of the oldest zoos in Europe and is one of the Denmark’s most visited attractions. With over 4000 animals, Copenhagen Zoo is a must-visit if you’re in the area. 

The Zoo is really easy to get to; you can either take the M3 metro to Frederiksberg Alle and walk another 20 minutes to the Zoo or the 7A bus route to Zoologist Have (Roskildevej) which drops you right outside the gates. Both methods cost roughly 24 DK for a one-way ticket. 

The zoo is divided into two parts and separated by the main road Roskildevej. The larger part of the zoo and the main entrance is to the north whilst the section is located to the south. Geniusly, the zoo has installed an underground passageway to allow easy access to both parks.

Easily one of the best animals to see are the two giant pandas currently on loan from China. Divided in separate enclosures, these amazing animals are fascinating to watch. However, seeing the Polar bears, kangaroos and sloths is also undoubtedly another highlight of the park! 

Despite some recent controversy, Copenhagen Zoo is considered very ethical and the animals have ample space to roam. With 9 main exhibits spanning over 11 hectares, it is recommended to spend a full day exploring the different areas. The zoo has a couple of restaurants and multiple stands selling hot food and drinks to keep you going throughout your visit. 

Contributed by Leah from Alex and Leah on Tour

The Copenhagen Zoo is open from 9am to 8pm with  tickets costing only €26.20 ! You can also choose the  Copenhagen City Pass  to enjoy discounted and free passes to 89 attractions and transportation systems, including the Copenhagen Zoo. 

#6 Edinburgh Zoo, Scotland

Famous for its giant pandas, the 82-acre Edinburgh Zoo is easily one of the best  things to do in Edinburgh with kids  with around 2,500 animals making their homes here, including rare and endangered species. It also has Europe’s largest outdoor penguin pool, and (when social distancing restrictions permit), the penguins themselves can waddle out for the daily parade, always a highlight for visitors. 

You’ll find plenty of other family favourites, too, from lemurs and chimps to lions, tigers, koalas, and Malayan sun bears, plus a new giraffe habitat that opened in the summer of 2021. Along with daily keeper talks, there are often extra activities and events taking place too, such as the temporary dinosaur walk-through. 

You’ll need at least half a day to explore, but you could fill a full day without any effort. 

Buses run regularly from Edinburgh city centre to the zoo in the suburb of Corstorphine (plus limited parking and a family-friendly hotel right next door), which also has more space than many city zoos. 

The animals’ welfare was key in its original design, while ethical practices have often been ahead of their time too. Elephant rides were an option for kids in its early days at the start of the 20th century, but the zoo stopped keeping elephants in captivity in 1988 and now has a sculpture helping to raise awareness and funds for elephant conservation, among other projects worldwide. 

Contributed by Cathy from Mummy Travels

Prices for 1 adult   Edinburgh Zoo ticket   cost  $24.48 , while seniors and students with ID can access the zoo for  only $22.21 per ticket . Tickets for children have a discounted  price of $15.34 . With the  Edinburgh: 24-Hour or 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour , you get an unlimited pass to bus rides from Bright Bus Tours stop in St Andrew Square, additional discounts, and a bus ride to the Edinburgh Zoo!

# 7 Skansen Zoo Stockholm, Sweden

One of the most unique zoos to visit in Europe is Skansen Zoo in Stockholm. This open-air museum is not only a great place to see various animals but also to learn about Swedish history. From African species to domestic pets, this zoo is a perfect choice for a family day out in Stockholm.

Skansen Zoo is a huge site and it feels more like a town than a typical zoo. It is the oldest open-air museum in the world with interesting Nordic buildings and great views of Stockholm. On the site, you can visit Skansen Aquarium where you will see tropical fishes or lemurs that are running around the building freely.

It is a great place to see animals from close up and take amazing pictures with them. Just make sure to spend at least 2 hours in the zoo as there is much more to explore. From admiring Brown Bear, Otters, and Reindeer to enjoying a great meal in one of the zoo’s restaurants, visiting Skansen Zoo in Stockholm will be an unforgettable experience. 

Contributed by Paulina from Ukeveryday

Pay only €20.57 for adult  Skansen: Open-Air Museum and Nordic Zoo tickets  for ages 16 and above! Seniors and students get discounted ticket prices of €18.70, while children ages 4 to 15 only need €6.55. If you want access to the Skansen Aquarium, the  combo ticket  only starts from €29.93.

#8 Beluga Whale Sanctuary, Iceland

The Beluga Whale Sanctuary is located on the small island called Vestmannaeyjar which is part of the Westman Islands. The sanctuary is currently home to two beluga whales named Little White and Little Grey . Both whales have been held in captivity in a Chinese amusement park and dolphinarium located in Shanghai.

When Merlin Entertainments purchased the aquarium, they decided to create a new sanctuary in Iceland to give the animals more space in a natural environment. Together with the Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC), the Beluga Whale Sanctuary was born.

After traveling by plane for almost 6,000 miles, both Beluga whales are currently swimming in a sea pen sanctuary. In the visitors center you can visit a small museum about the project, an aquarium with native marine life, holding pens (here is where the beluga’s go if the weather is bad), and a few adorable puffins!

Did you know that puffins are a native bird species in Iceland? All the money that is raised from ticket sales is used to provide the best care possible for all the animals that are part of the sanctuary. The average spending time at the sanctuary is 2 hours. You can purchase a normal ticket for 2,100 ISK or combine your visit with a whale boat tour to the sea pen for 9,900 ISK. If you have some time left, trying one of the whale watching tours in Iceland is also an awesome idea and a great way to see the beautiful animals in their natural environment.

Contributed by Niels from Whale Watching Iceland

Sign up for a  whale tour  from Reyjavik, Akureyri, and Husavik! The Classic tour costs €77 to € 86 worth 3 hours, while the VIP tour lasting 2 hours starts from €122 to €150.

#9 Dublin Zoo, Ireland

Dublin Zoo is a beautiful attraction in Ireland’s capital and one of the best things to do in Phoenix Park. It opened to the public in 1840 after the London zoo donated a number of animals. With 28 hectares, the grounds of Dublin Zoo attract over 1 million visitors every year, and for good reasons as it’s one of the top zoos in Europe. 

The zoo is a lovely escape from the city and features some of the most stunning exotic animals in the world. The zoo is divided by regions of the world including the African Savanna, the Family Farm, and the Wolves in the Woods.

One of the zoo highlights is the Orangutans’ habitats. These beautiful animals are hosted on large grounds with lots of polls to climb. They can even climb and cross right above the visitor’s path for everyone’s pleasure! Another highlight is the elephant feeding time. It is not rare to see baby elephants at Dublin zoo so keep your eyes open!

The zoo is a registered charity and places a big emphasis on the conservation of biodiversity and the welfare of the animals. The zoo collaborates with other zoos and institutions to ensure their staff is best trained and animals are best taken care of. The animals have large enclosed spaces and there are no photo options with animals. 

The visit takes about a short day and sometimes a full day if you want to take your time. As the zoo is located in Phoenix Park, you can prolong your experience with wild animals by checking out the  wild deer in the park  after leaving the zoo. 

Contributed by Mary from Be Right Back

Regular tickets for adults online start at €18.25, while children under 3 years are free of entry. For children 3 to 15 years old, tickets cost €13.50, and senior tickets cost €13.95 . You can visit the  Dublin Zoo website  for more ticket prices for families and groups. 

#10 Karlsruhe Zoo, Germany

Karlsruhe zoological gardens is well worth a visit, being one of the oldest zoos in Germany, established in 1865. An Institution member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) it’s an organization dedicated to the care and conservation of animals and their habitats. The zoo is actively involved in local and global conservation projects for endangered species and the preservation of habitats.

It’s located within easy walking distance of the city center, just north of the central railway station. The zoo is incorporated within the municipal gardens, offering many themed garden sections complementary to an extensive selection of animal enclosures. A  map of the zoo allows for easy navigation.

The zoo is home to some 250 species presented in themed sections mimicking the habitats of each species. The Water Habitat showcases penguins, seals, and sea lions, with polar bears next door in the Tundra Habitat. 

Three large African savanna enclosures exhibit both large and small representative species from Africa’s animal kingdom. The Himalayan Mountains exhibit was established to house the Snow Leopards, with the zoo being part of Europe’s Snow Leopard breeding program.

When   planning your visit  to the zoo, allow at least half a day to enjoy the gardens and the zoo. Enjoy a unique perspective of the zoo in one of the gondoletta, connecting the north and south water areas with a canal (40min return). Enjoy the gardens with a picnic lunch or dine at the café or waffle kiosk on site.

Contributed by Jeanine from Let’s go a Wandering

Karlsruhe Zoo day tickets cost €13.00 , while children ages 6 to 15 get a discounted price of €5.50 . The  zoo’s annual tickets  are affordable too, costing only €48.00 for adults and €22.00 for children . Visit their website for more information about their day and annual ticket prices. 

#11 Berlin Zoo, Germany

Berlin actually has two zoos – one in the west and one in the east – but the Berlin Zoological Garden in the western side of the city is one of the most popular zoos in Europe. It’s also the oldest zoo in Germany. The Eastern zoo, Tierpark Zoo is the biggest zoo in Europe.

With more than 20,000 animals from over 1,000 species, the Berlin Zoo has the biggest variety of species of any zoo in the world. This is definitely an impressive place to visit if you’re interested in animals. The Berlin Zoo is also home to Germany’s only giant pandas.

Aside from pandas, you can also see elephants, zebras, giraffes, penguins, flamingos, kiwis, tigers, and many other animals from around the world, including local species. The Berlin also has an aquarium where you can see all kinds of fish and other sea creatures, reptiles, amphibians, and insects.

The animals come first at the Berlin Zoo, and conservation is very important here. The zoo works to protect endangered species and reintroduce certain animals back into their normal habitat. For example, European bison and bearded vultures have been successfully released into the wild in several places. They’re also trying to protect and reintroduce the Vietnamese pheasant into its natural habitat where it is believed to be extinct.

The Berlin Zoological Garden should definitely be on your  Berlin bucket list , especially if you’re traveling with kids. Plan on spending at least a couple of hours wandering around to see the different animals, and check feeding schedules ahead of time. The zoo has a detailed map so you can plan your route to different sections, such as the elephant area, primate area, penguin area, etc.

The closest transport station is the Zoo station, which can be reached on the U1, U9, and several Sbahn lines and regional train lines.

Contributed by Ali from Berlin Travel Tips

Dublin Zoo tickets  cost €17 for adults , while children ages 4 to 15 cost €8,50 . Children under 4 years old get free access. Dublin Zoo is open from 9am to 6:30pm . 

#12 Bioparc, Valencia

Bioparc is one of the most impressive zoos in the world and can definitely count as one of Europe’s best zoos. As one of the  best things to do in Valencia , Spain, this zoo is all about being respectful towards the animals. Bioparc is built around the concept of zoo immersion, and while visiting it, you’ll feel more like you’re visiting a safari than a traditional zoo.

While you are perfectly safe walking the alleys, the animals have plenty of space to roam around as well. There are no cages and no fences, instead, all borders between habitats are natural, like streams of water. The park is divided into four habits — Madagascar, Ecuatorial forest, Savanna, and the wetlands.

The cutest inhabitants and everyone’s favorite are the lemurs. But it’s quite possible the elephants, giraffes and the gorillas will steal your heart as well. With over 100.000 sqm and more than 800 animals to see, you can visit Bioparc in a minimum of two hours. But you might be quite tempted to spend the whole day.

Contributed by Laura from Travelers Universe

The Bioparc is open from 10 am to 8pm, and adults ages 13 to 64 can enter the park at €26.90 . Tickets for seniors get a discounted price of €20.60 while children 4 to 12 years old can get their tickets for €21.00. You can also get affordable  Bioparc tickets  for groups and families. 

#13 Lagos Zoo, Portugal

Lagos Zoo is situated in a quiet area 8 km outside of the town of Lagos, one of the most popular beach towns in the Algarve region of Portugal.

Over 140 animal and bird species from 5 continents can be found in Lagos Zoo. The zoo is divided into different zones each representing a region e.g. Australia, Africa, tropics, etc. Mammals and most birds are kept in open-plan enclosures surrounded by trees that provide shade and create a natural environment. Enclosures have enough space for animals to roam around. No photos with animals are available.

During the summer season from 1st April to 30th September, there is a sandy beach and a kids pool at the zoo near the rocky pool with African penguins. A visit to the zoo is one of the not-to-miss things to do in Lagos for travellers with children. One needs 2-3 hours to visit the zoo. There is a restaurant, a picnic area, a playground, and a souvenir shop inside the zoo. It’s open daily from 10 am to 7 pm (5 pm in winter).

Lagos Zoo is a member of the EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquariums). It takes part in several conservation projects among them Hornbill Conservation Project in Thailand and India, Primate Rehabilitation Centre in Congo, and the Cotton Top Tamarin Conservation Club in Colombia. 

Contributed by Alya from Algarve Family

Lagos Zoo  takes you on an outdoor zoo adventure with adult tickets costing €16.00 , available for visitors ages 12 to 64. Children 4 to 11 years old and seniors ages 65 and above can enter with tickets costing €12.00 and €14.00 , respectively.

#14 Fota Wildlife Park, Ireland

Fota Wildlife Park in Cork is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations, and it is easy to see why.

The park is home to over 140 native and exotic animals, including red pandas, lions, and giraffes.

You’ll start out with the Cheetahs directly outside the main entrance and continue through the Asian Sanctuary to the Tiger Forest followed by the adorable Red Pandas.

You’ll then come to the lake where you can buy food for the ducks. After this, it’s monkeys, gibbons, kangaroos, and more. Plus a good playground and an ice cream kiosk (of course!).

Animal welfare is a top priority at Fota Wildlife Park, and the staff works hard to ensure that all of the animals are healthy and happy.

The animals at Fota Wildlife Park are well-cared for and have ample space to roam – spread across 100 acres. There are opportunities throughout the warmer months to see the animals being fed – with feeding times a day on offer.

Fota is best enjoyed on a dry day as you will be spending most of your time outside (be sure to wear good walking shoes).

Current restrictions mean a one-way system is in place through the park. It’s well-signposted and easy to follow.

The cafes on site are reasonably priced and the coffee is surprisingly good.

If you drive, you’ll need to pay a €3 parking charge. This entitles you to access Fota House and Gardens which are adjacent to the wildlife park and worth exploring if the sun is out.

Allow up to 3 hours to enjoy the park, although you could squeeze it into 2 hours if you were really pushed.

Contributed by Emma from Our Spanish Life

FOTA Wildlife Park  entry tickets cost €17.20 for adults, while children under 16 years old only need to pay €11.90 . Students and seniors get a discounted ticket price of €12.90 . Toddlers up to 36 months are free of entry. They also have affordable ticket prices ranging from €52.00 to €69.00.

#15 Wroclaw Zoo, Poland

Wroclaw Zoo is the oldest (and largest) zoo in Poland, and it hosts more than 10,000 animals. It’s located in the central part of the city, right in front of Centennial Hall. There’s a large parking lot available near the Hall, if you arrive by car. One thing to

keep in mind: Wroclaw Zoo gets very crowded on the weekends, with long entrance queues, so be prepared to spend the whole day here.

Inside, you’ll find 1,132 animal species, including monkeys, giraffes, rhinos, kangaroos, wolves, flamingos, and many more. The zoo is conveniently divided into sections: the Africarium (which includes the fauna of Africa, and a breathtaking underwater tunnel), the aquarium, the terrarium, and a few pavilions (with monkeys, birds, elephants, and other animals). It’s recommended to check the map in advance and make a plan of what you’d like to see because once you’re inside, time flies very fast.

Wroclaw Zoo’s visiting terms allow taking photos of the animals, but without a flash.

Animals here are kept in good conditions, very close to their natural habitats. Aside from being fun, the Wroclaw Zoo teaches people about animals and has a successful breeding program that helps protect species that are in danger of going extinct.

Wroclaw Zoo is open all year round, including holidays: Mon-Thu: 9:00 – 18:00; Fri-Sun, and holidays: 9:00-19:00; You can buy the tickets online (the recommended option) or at the cash desk (the queues are usually very long). A regular ticket costs 60 PLN.

Contributed by Leslie from Backpackers Thailand

Regular  tickets to the Wroclaw Zoo  costs 60 zl while students only need to pay 50 zl. You can also avail of group and family tickets at their website. If you want private transportation to and from the zoo, choose the  Wroclaw: Zoo with Private Transport and Tickets  for only $70.28.

The Best Safari Parks in Europe

#1 serengeti park, germany.

Besides the Karlsruhe Zoo, you may also want to go on a wildlife tour at Germany’s Serengeti Park!

Located in Hodenhagen, the whole family can get up close with tigers, bison, zebras, and more animals found in Africa. With over 200 hectares of land, the Serengeti Park in Germany is still considered the biggest safari park in Europe!

You can use your own vehicle to ride through the park or join other tourists and families on the safari bus! Serengeti Park also has many attractions, such as the Jungle Safari to meet 200 species of monkeys and the Petting Safari to cuddle and help feed donkeys, goats, and even alpacas.

The safari park also holds the best facilities to breed white rhinos, elephants, and other species of animals! The fun does not end with meeting and exploring animals. The whole family can spend the rest of the day riding a roller coaster, trying the rope course, and experiencing more than 40 rides and shows!

Serengeti Park  lets you park your car for free, and adult tickets cost €34.50 . People with disabilities and their accompanying person gets discounted tickets for only €17.00 per person . If you are coming with the whole family, children’s tickets cost €27.50 . You can walk or ride the Serengeti bus for only €5.50 per person. 

#2 Beekse Bergen, The Netherlands

When you reach the Netherlands, be sure to include Beekse Bergen in your itinerary too!

It is the largest animal park in the country, so it may take more than a day for the whole family to experience all the attractions. You can either walk or drive your own car to tour the wild park.

To get the complete tourist experience, you can ride Beekse Bergen’s safari bus along with other travelers! The boat safari also offers a unique view of the safari tour. Both amenities let you in on facts about the animals you will see along the trail.

One attraction you should include in your trip to the safari park is the Birds of Prey Safari. The whole family can sit back and discover survival instincts and other characteristics of these useful species of birds.

Another sight to see is the animals feeding time. Rangers will tell you about chimpanzees, elephants, and other animals’ eating habits and favorite food. Plus, you also get to be close to them as rangers feed them just along the safari trail!

The  safari park day ticket  starts from €27 for guests 10 years old and up, while tickets for children 3 to 9 only cost €21,50 . Children under 3 years old get a free pass to the safari park. 

What is Europe’s biggest zoo?

Port Lympne Wild Animal Park is currently the largest zoo in Europe, with over 600 acres of land, located at Hyte, Kent, England! The animal reserve houses the Port Lympne Mansion from World War I and 90 species of animals, some of them are rare and endangered.

How Many Zoos Are In Europe?

As of 2022, the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria recorded 149 accredited zoos all over Europe!

What is the Busiest Zoo in Europe?

Zoologischer Garten of Berlin is the most-visited zoo in Europe today, with over 3 million visitors annually. On its more than 80 acres of land, the zoo houses more than 20,000 animals of 1,500 species. It is also the zoo that has the most animals and animal species.

What Is The Oldest Zoo In Europe?

Tiergarten Schönbrunn, or Vienna Zoo, is the oldest zoo in the world, which opened in 1752! As the best scientifically-managed zoo, it is currently the model for animal conservation. The zoo still offers everyday animal attractions and education tours for bother day and night!

What Country Has The Most Zoos?

According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums , the United States of America has the most number of accredited zoos with 215 across 46 states!

Wrapping up the best zoos in Europe

So, what do you think? Have you visited any of these popular zoos in Europe? Let us know your experiences! We would also love to hear your thoughts and recommendations for this list of zoos in Europe.

Mums on Flipflops  is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca, amazon.de, amazon.fr, amazon.it and amazon.es. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Babs Rodrigus is the co-founder and main writer of Mums on FlipFlops . She is absolutely crazy about traveling – especially together with her wife and kids. Babs loves animals, chocolate (what did you expect from a Belgian?), reading, and writing.

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Top 10 Safari Vacations in Europe

Safaris in Europe are more of the ice adventure kind, particularly up in the northern reaches of Scandinavia. Rug up and keep warm sailing, kiting, dog sledding or hiking through Poland, Greenland, Scotland or Norway. Marine animals like seals, whales and dolphins are plentiful or meet the musk-ox, reindeer or polar bear.

• Sailing safari, Greenland Sail into the superb fjords of East Greenland to see the aurora borealis and the wildlife. Polar bears, eight species of whales, two million seals, reindeer, musk oxen, artic hares and artic wolves are just some of the species living here.
• Musk-Ox Safari, Greenland Take a husky team or snowmobile from the town of Kangerlussuaq, located at the head of the country’s third longest fjord. Cut through this beautiful region to look for the noble musk ox and with a bit of luck some reindeer and Artic foxes too. It’s extremely cold here but a good place to see the northern lights.
• Polar bear Safari, Svalbard, Norway Don’t become the bears next meal on this archipelago. The three thousand bears are almost as numerous as the icebergs and glaciers and known to hunt humans if they’re hungry.
• Bialowieza Forest, Poland Get on the bison trail in this forest known for its 300 strong population of rare European bison.
• Orkney Islands, Scotland This archipelago is particularly fertile and has an amazing number of birds. Getyou’re your book and count off guillemot, razorbill, puffin, kittiwake, breeding fowl and the short-eared owl.
• High Tatra Mountains, Slovakia This wild and rugged country contains some of Europe’s finest and least disturbed habitats. Track lynx and wolf across snow capped peaks, keep an eye out for spotted eagles and black storks and of course the brown bear. There are about 300 of these bears, one of Europe’s best populations of large mammals.
• Piatra Craiului Mountains, Romania When you think wildlife in Europe think Romania. Two thirds of the Europe’s bear population lives in the Romanian mountains, as do most of the wolves, chamois and the lynx and an impressive number of bird species.
• Orca sailing safari, Azores, Portugal The clear waters of the Azores provide a breeding ground for Sperm Whales although numerous other species can be seen including Fin, Blue, Pygmy Sperm, Blue, Pilot and Orca Whales. There are also dolphins and you might glimpse sharks and turtles.
• Lapland, Sweden Take a reindeer safari and throw in a bit of skiing or ice fishing while meeting Ptarmigan, Elk, Wolverine and Lynx along your journey.
• Pembrokeshire, Wales Pembrokeshire is well-known for both its seabirds, its plants and a wealth of other wildlife, from cetaceans and seals along the coasts and bats and butterflies inland. There are sea cliffs, moorland, pastures and ancient woods to explore plus the island of Skomer, where puffins, razorbills, guillemots and other seabirds dwell.

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Norway's Fjords and Arctic Svalbard

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Introduction to Spitsbergen: Fjords, Glaciers, and Wildlife of Svalbard

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12 BEST Safari Parks in the UK

From guided tours and drive through safaris, to wallaby walkthroughs and big cats roaming, here are the best safari parks in the uk..

Forget going to the zoo, this post is all about going on safari in the UK!

Did you know that the UK offers some of the best safari park experiences in Europe? It’s true! And it means you don’t need to spend big bucks when seeing the big 5.

Whether you’re looking for a drive through experience or to get up close and personal with the animals, we’ve compiled a list of the best safari parks in the UK. These are the best ones in England , Scotland and Wales .

From drive-through experiences at Longleat, to walkthrough experiences such as the foot safari at Woburn Safari Park, there are so many options to choose from. And all of them are guaranteed good days out!

If you prefer a guided tour with zoo experts, West Midland Safari Park offers fantastic mini bus tours. Or maybe you’d prefer to walk with the wallabies at Manor Wildlife Park? 

We absolutely love watching the monkeys climb on top of the cars at Blair Drummond – be warned because they are very cheeky! Will you choose to sleep with the animals, ride a safari, or hand feed parakeets?

Find out all of this and more in our list of the best UK safari parks.

Best Safari Parks in the UK

Longleat safari park.

Check out the UK’s Number 1 safari park at Longleat, Wiltshire! Discover big cats, elephants, wolves and more at the drive-through safari experience.

Wind up your windows for the safari of a lifetime as you pass through Tiger Territory, Cheetah Kingdom and The Big Game Park, where you can see a herd of Southern white rhinos.

Don’t forget to check out our favourite part – Monkey Mayhem. The troupe of macaques are known for causing mischief (just watch out for your windscreen wipers!)

Jump out at the African Village and Walking Safari as you journey across the African reserve and discover giraffes, zebras, wildebeest and ostriches. 

• Address: Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW
• Website: https://www.longleat.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your Longleat tickets here

West Midland Safari Park

Whether you’re driving yourself or jumping on a guided minibus tour, the safari experience at West Midland Safari Park can be enjoyed by everyone.

Animal fanatics can book onto a guided minibus safari tour where the knowledgeable staff will teach you all about the different animals. Can you spot the rhinos, lions, camels and elephants across the 5 different zones? You can even take your own car if you’d prefer to experience the safari at your own pace.

View the animals up close on the African Walking Trail. Watch out for the elephants roaming their new habitat, or the giraffes grazing on the trees.

• Address: West Midland Safari Park. Bewdley, Worcestershire, DY12 1LF
• Website: https://www.wmsp.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your WMSP tickets here

Chessington Safari Resort

For a unique type of safari experience, check out Chessington Safari Resort. With a range of themed rooms, you can see animals whilst you sleep.

Choose between exquisitely themed rooms with views over the enclosures of your favourite animals. The giraffe room, tiger room, penguin room and monkey mayhem room overlook the Wanyama reserve.

Many of the rooms include access to the savannah splash pool and hotel entertainment. To finish off your trip, check Chessington World of Adventure for a day full of thrill rides and zoo fun. 

• Address: Chessington World of Adventures, Leatherhead Rd, Chessington. KT9 2NE
• Website: https://www.chessington.com/
• Tickets: Get your Chessington World of Adventures tickets here

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

Whipsnade Zoo is one of the biggest zoos in England with over 10,000 animals. As part of the Zoological Society London , Whipsnade is dedicated to conservation, sustainability, and science. 

Whipsnade Zoo has many incredible animals you won’t see elsewhere, like brown bears and wolverines. This year an endangered baby Asian elephant was born at the zoo! Grab tickets for the Elephant Cafe where you will be able to see mum and baby.

Why not try one of the many experiences at the zoo? Become a keeper for the day and you can work with the rhinos, giraffes and elephants. 

• Address: Whipsnade, Dunstable. LU6 2LF
• Website: https://www.zsl.org/zsl-whipsnade-zoo
• Tickets: Get your Whipsnade tickets here

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

Scottish readers are definitely going to want to visit Blair Drummond Park to get their animal fix. From lions and macaques, to deer and antelope, there’s so much to see. 

Venture through the African animals, Asian animals, the lions and the macaque reserve in your own car for a day of family fun. Will you spot the rhino in the grass or hear the lion roar? The cheeky monkeys love to jump on cars as they pass so don’t forget to lock your doors!

Once you’ve had your drive-through fun you can check out the 300 species at Blair Drummond. I’m a big fan of the wallabies!

• Address: Blair Drummond, Stirling. FK9 4UR
• Website: https://www.blairdrummond.com/
• Tickets: Get your Blair Drummond tickets here

Manor Wildlife Park

If you like to get up close and personal with the wildlife, Manor Wildlife Park in Wales is the safari park for you. With several walkthrough safari experiences, there are so many animals to spot.

Start off your day in the Wallaby Walkthrough, where visitors can see young Joey’s hop into their mother’s pouch. I love to look for my favourite animal, the red panda, through the forest canopy. 

Don’t forget to visit the Lemurs in their Madagascan home where you can watch them jump and climb. If you’re lucky they might even sit next to you!

• Address: Manor Wildlife Park, St Florence, Tenby. SA70 8RJ
• Website: https://www.manorwildlifepark.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your Manor Wildlife Park tickets here

Port Lympne Safari Park

Come face to face with rare and endangered animals at Port Lympne Safari Park. Head to Kent to experience hundreds of acres of savannah. 

Port Lympne offers three unique safari experiences for you to choose from. On the AAA safari, an expert ranger takes you on a guided tour to see Savannah animals, like the giraffe, zebra, ostrich and wildebeest. Can you spot the black rhino?

Perhaps you’d prefer to jump on the rhino and giraffe safari, or the rangers tour, where you’ll journey through the Asian and African exhibits. 

• Address: Aldington Rd, Lympne, Hythe. CT21 4LR
• Website: https://www.aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne/
• Tickets: Get your Pork Lympne tickets here

Knowsley Safari Park

Did you know that Knowsley Safari Park is actually the biggest safari park in the UK?

This 550 acre safari park is home to animals from across the globe. Journey through Eastern and Southern Asia, where you can see yaks and deer, or check out the African Savannah zone which is home to one of the largest white rhinos in the UK. Hop on the baboon bus for a car-friendly view of the baboons as they swing off the ropes.

Finish off your day with a walk through the Amur Tiger trail where you can get nose to nose with the two tigers.

• Address: Knowsley Safari Park, Prescot. L34 4AN
• Website: https://www.knowsleysafariexperience.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your Knowsley Safari Park tickets here

Woburn Safari Park

Check out over 300 acres of drive-through safari nestled amongst the Bedfordshire landscape at Woburn Safari Park. You can have a whole day of fun with the drive-through and walk-through safari experiences.

Drive through the vast nature reserves to spot the animals lurking within. From bison and rhinos, to bears and tigers, there are so many incredible animals across 5 zones. I’d recommend the Kingdom of the Carnivores, where you can see tigers, lions, bears and wolves!

End your experience with the foot safari, where you can explore small mammals and birds. With lemurs, penguins, birds of prey, otters, wallabies, and more, this is not one to be missed.

• Address: Woburn Safari Park, Crawley Rd, Woburn, Ridgmont, Bedford. MK43 0TU
• Website: https://www.woburnsafari.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your Woburn Safari Park tickets here

Knepp Wildlife Safari

If you’re looking for something different, check out the safari experiences at Knepp Safari. Encounter local wildlife, such as ponies, deer, and pigs, on one of the many vehicle and walking safaris at Knepp.

Hop on the all terrain vehicle and enjoy the half-day safari to discover British wildlife. You will see free-roaming herds of cattle, ponies, pigs and deer on your journey.

You’ll get to stop at the wildlife ‘refugia’ and spot small animals, such as grass snakes, toads and voles. There’s even a cafe stop so you can enjoy delicious local brownies.

Why not try a themed safari, such as the autumn safari, where you can spot red deer stags, or the bats and moths safari, where you can see nocturnal creatures.

• Address: Knepp Wildland Safaris, New Barn Farm, Swallows Ln, Dial Post, Horsham. RH13 8NN
• Website: https://www.kneppsafaris.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your Knepp Wildlife Safari tickets here

South Lakes Safari Zoo

Home to over 1,000 of the rarest and most endangered species across the globe, South Lakes Safari Zoo is the perfect place to get up close and personal with the animals.

From Africa and Madagascar, to Australia and South America, there’s so much to see. Check out the jaguars and snow leopards or head to the lemurs and arctic wolves. South Lakes Safari Zoo is committed to conservation so you can view the animals in their natural environment. 

Why not book an animal encounter to learn all about your favourite animal? I’d love to prepare Stanley the sloth his favourite snacks!

• Address: South Lakes Safari Zoo, Melton Ter, Lindal in Furness, Ulverston. LA12 0LU
• Website: https://www.southlakessafarizoo.com/
• Tickets: Get your South Lakes Safari Zoo tickets here

Peak Wildlife Park

Peak Wildlife Park offers fantastic walk through experiences for all the family. Whether you decide to explore the African village or walk with the penguins, there’s something for everyone.

Have you ever wanted to walk with the lemurs or wallabies? I certainly have! Watch the lemurs leap through the canopies and listen to their distinct calls, or check out wallaby wonderland where the friendly animals will munch on branches out of your hands.

Head to the African village where you can spot meerkats, chickens, and Pygmy goats. Don’t forget to give their horns a good scratch!

• Address: Peak Wildlife Park, Winkhill, Leek. ST13 7QR
• Website: https://www.peakwildlifepark.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your Peak Wildlife Park tickets here

Twycross Zoo

Twycross Zoo prides itself on being at the heart of conservation. With several walkthrough enclosures and a brand new The Gruffalo Discovery Land, this is a fantastic choice for little ones. 

Walk among the flutters of colourful wings in the Butterfly Paradise or hand feed the birds at Lorikeet Landing. Head to the goat walkthrough where your little ones (and the biggest members of the family!) can stroke the farmyard animals. 

Check out the lemurs as they weave in and out of your feet. You can even watch the tigers roam above you in the glass visitor tunnel. 

• Address: Twycross Zoo, East Midland Zoological Society, Burton Rd, Atherstone. CV9 3PX
• Website: https://twycrosszoo.org/
• Tickets: Get your Twycross Zoo tickets here

That concludes our list of the best UK safari parks. Which one will you be visiting on your next day out with the family? If you have any questions at all, you can let us know in the comments below!

If you’re looking for other fun days out, then check out our guide to the best theme parks in the UK . Again, this is perfect for the whole family!

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Serengeti Park

Der Safari Park in der Lüneburger Heide

The Serengeti Park Hodenhagen is the largest safari park in Europe. More than 1.500 wild and exotic animals from different far away countries live in a natural environment. 

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Serengeti Safari Park, Hodenhagen

Visitors to the 220-hectare Serengeti Safari Park in Hodenhagen can experience the African animal kingdom up close and admire a great many species thanks to the Petting, Jungle and Serengeti Safaris.

The Serengeti Safari allows visitors to see lion prides, bison, giraffes, tigers and zebras roaming free from the comfort and safety of their own car or the safari bus. There are no vehicles allowed for the Jungle Safari, though, as visitors explore the space in which 200 monkey species and the newly added Bennett's tree-kangaroos live. The Petting Safari is visitors' chance to feed and cuddle alpacas, donkeys and goats. The Safari Park is recognised as a zoo and is one of the leading breeding facilities for elephants and white rhinoceroses in Europe.

Boasting more than 40 rides and all kinds of shows, the Adventure Safari provides ample opportunity for animal-inspired fun of a different kind.

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• Safaris In Germany: All You Need To Know for An Adventurous Day Out On Your Next Trip

23 Mar 2023

There is no end to the surprises Germany holds for the tourists who come seeking unforgettable experiences in this amazing country. While the unique culture and history leave you so much richer in experience, the architectural marvels and monuments are sure to leave you speechless and spellbound. Germany also aces on account of natural wonders and breathtaking vistas, from the soaring Alps and stunning gorges to pristine lakes and rolling green meadows across its length and breadth. Miles of forests lands and hiking paths hold a treasure trove of flora and fauna amidst their folds, to be discovered and explored by those who take the path less trodden.

Amidst a plethora of adventure activities and outdoor fun, wildlife safaris in Germany allow you to get up close and personal with a range of wild animals and scenic corners of the country with a dash of adventure on the side offered by balloon and ATV safaris.

Best Safari Places In Germany

You needn’t travel all the way to Africa for a rendezvous with some of the most interesting and exotic animals of the world. Germany’s wildlife parks allow you to embark on an exciting adventure of discovering the habitats of wild animal and getting a front-row view of their lives. Here are some of the best safaris in Germany for a tete-e-tete with bears, leopards, tigers, chimps, wolves and many more.

1. Serengeti Park, Hodenhagen

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Sprawled over 120 hectares, Europe’s largest safari park is home to more than 1500 wild and exotic animals from all across the world living in their natural habitats. Rooted in the philosophy of wildlife conservation and sustainability, the park is split into four themed lands each offering unique and exciting experiences for the entire family. You can witness prides of line, herds of wildebeest and deer as well as rhinos, giraffes, tigers, bears and ostriches as you drive through the park. In addition to offering one of the best safaris in Germany, Serengeti Park also has the biggest petting zoo in Europe with 200 animals along with kids’ favourite monkey world and a fun theme park with more than 40 thrilling rides.

Top things to do: The high-adrenaline action packed Aqua Safari in an original Florida airboat is a must do, along with the Quad Safari and Splash Safari. The Top Spin, flying elephants and Ferris Wheel are highlights of the theme park. Location: Am Safaripark 1, 29693 Hodenhagen, Germany Timings: The Park opens from March to November every year and timings vary. For more details check https://www.serengeti-park.de/en/opening-hours/ Entry Fee: Euro 34.50/adult and Euro 27.50/child.

Must Read: 5 Waterfalls In Germany To Witness The Charismatic Beauty Of Nature

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2. ZOOM World of Adventure, Gelsenkirchen

Tucked away in the Ruhr region is one of the coolest safaris in Germany that takes you on a round-the-world adventure spanning continents from Alaska to Africa and Asia. Get ready to discover an exciting world of exotic animals as you travel through the four themed zones with animals from distant lands in their natural habitats. While the Alaskan zone take you through hills, lakes and a gushing waterfall to the land of polar bears, snow owls, sea lions and lynx, the African safari promises a rendezvous with lions, baboons, rhinos and flamingos. The kids will love the petting area at Grimberger Hof as well as the indoor playground Dragonworld.

Top things to do: African boat safari as well as themed restaurants in the park promise great fun for the entire family. Location: Bleckstr. 47, 45889 Gelsenkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany Timings: 9AM-6PM (March & October); 9AM-6:30PM (April-September). Winter timings vary. Entry Fee: Euro 21.5/adult; Euro 14/child. Reduce price of Euro 15.5/adult and Euro 10.50 /child apply in winter months

3. Wildpark Poing

Amongst all the safaris in Germany, this walk in the wild is definitely worth taking along with your entire family. The lovely park offers a 4 kilometre long trail through forests and meadows where you can witness a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat. The park design and enclosures beautifully replicate the natural habitats, making it an enjoyable experience of getting up close with wildlife. While the lynx, boars and wolves roam in their enclosures, the moufflons and deer wander freely through forested area where they can be fed and petted. There’s a wonderful picnic area with children’s playgrounds to unwind and relax after your exciting rendezvous with the animals.

Top things to do: The Birds of Prey display is an interesting and educative experience allowing a peek into the world of majestic avian species like eagles and falcons. It takes place almost every day between April-November. Location: Osterfeldweg 20, 85586 Poing, Germany Timings: Daily, 9AM-5PM. Winter timings are from 9AM-4PM. Entry Fee: Euro 10/adult; Euro 6/child

Suggested Read: 10 Best Berlin Churches To Get Closer To Your Inner Self In The Enchanting Capital Of Germany

4. Tier-Freigelände im Nationalparkzentrum Lusen

This is one of the best safaris in Germany for those who would like to explore the fauna of Bavarian region. The 7 kilometre long roundabout trail allows you to walk past open-air enclosures where animals like bison, bear, otter, lynx and wolves roam about freely in their spacious natural habitats. The walk also gives you a chance to soak in the natural splendour of the Bavarian Forest National Park along with the chance to spot lots of animals if you’re patient enough. The entire path is pram and wheelchair friendly, making it a perfect family day out in the wild.

Top things to do: Do not miss the unique and out-of-this world tree-top walk while you’re here. Location: Böhmstraße 35, 94556 Neuschönau, Germany Timings: Daily, 6AM-10PM Entry Fee: free entry

Other Exciting Safaris In Germany

While in Germany you not only get a chance to spend precious hours exploring the native and exotic wildlife but also experience its great outdoors through unique safaris. Here are our top picks for some cool safaris in Germany for adventure seekers and offbeat experience hunters.

1. Balloon Safari

There is nothing more fascinating than soaring up in the sky in a gently floating hot air balloon as you gaze in wonder at the cities and landscapes passing by. Balloon safaris in Germany almost all year round offer the chance to sail above castles and cultural landmarks as well as majestic Alps and lush forests, making it a once in a lifetime experience. Stuttgart, Munich and Rothenburg are good choices for city safaris in Germany while the Bavarian Alps and beyond make for the perfect one for lovers of natural landscapes.

Price: Usually starts from Euro 170 per person.

Suggested Read: 7 Stunning Villas In Germany For A Luxurious Holiday In Europe You’ve Always Dreamed Of

2. ATV Safari

Even the thought of driving through the breathtakingly beautiful terrain of the mystical Black Forest on a Quad bike is enough to induce a rush of anticipation and excitement to adventure lovers. Amongst the most interesting safaris in Germany, the ATV tour of the famed forest is highly recommended. The ATV tour on a Triton 400 starts from Malsch (close to Baden Baden) and takes you through one of the most beautiful German landscapes in northern Black Forest. There are short breaks in the 60-Km tour for admiring the scenic views and other attractions.

Price: Starts from Euro 99/adult for a 3.5-4-hour safari.

Suggested Read: Winter In Germany: Witness The Beauty & Grandeur Of The Country Like Never Before!

3. Trabi Safari

We’ve saved the most unique of all safaris in Germany for the last, so that you’re left with a taste of adventure and wanderlust on your travel palate. The Trabi Safari lets you see Berlin through a whole new lens as you drive the vintage Trabant of your choice and cruise along the famous city sights like the Berlin Wall. Light-heartedly called ‘spark plug on wheels’ by the locals, the antique East German Trabant (with guide in a separate car) takes you on a fun adventure through the heart of Berlin and makes for one of the best safaris in Germany.

Price: From Euro 79/adult

Suggested Read: Oktoberfest Germany: Bottoms Up Your Mugs At The World’s Largest Beer Fest

Tips For A Safe Safari In Germany

• Casual comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen and hats are a must if you plan to do the various outdoor safaris in Germany during the summer season.
• For the wildlife safaris like the Serengeti safari in Germany, it is good to carry a daypack to keep the kids hydrated and nourished during the safari walks and other sessions. Even though most good parks have restaurants or refreshment kiosks, carrying your own stock always comes in handy. Pay close attention to the instructors as you indulge in adventure activities including balloon safari and ATV/quad biking, etc.
• Carry a stole or light jacket for evening safaris as the air gets nippy after sun down.
• Choose the time of your safari wisely to ensure you have a pleasant experience. Animal viewings and feedings at most parks are good during morning hours, while balloon safaris offer best visibility and between January-March so warm clothes are a must.

Further Read: Germany Nightlife: An Ultimate Guide To Experience A Kaleidoscope Of Drinks And Music

Now that you know where to head for a great safari experience in Germany, don’t keep your loved ones and yourself waiting. Plan a trip to Europe with TravelTriangle right away and head out for an adventurous holiday.

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Europe Safari Tours 2024/2025

21 great safari trips in Europe. Searching for a safari tour in Europe? Below you will find 21 curated safari trips taking place in Europe with 116 reviews. Our safari trips are supplied by 5 hand-picked tour agencies in Europe. With tour prices ranging from 848 USD to 17,390 USD and tour durations varying from 5 days and to 15 days, there is plenty to choose from.

• Europe Travel Guide

21 Safari tours with 116 Reviews

• Starts Bucharest, Romania
• Ends Bucharest, Romania

Carpathian Walking & Bears

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Wildlife & Safari
• Accommodation Guest House
• Transport Minibus & Bus
• Age Range 16-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,023
• Special Deal (5%): - US$ 103
• Total Price from: US$ 1,920
• Jun 01 Only 1 seat left
• Jun 15 Only 1 seat left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Amazing Romania - Seven day private tour from Bucharest

• Free cancellation
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Local culture & City sightseeing Local culture , City sightseeing , Trekking and Hiking , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Food tours , Wine tasting tours , Wildlife , Classes and workshops & Safari 'data-more-tripid='15282'>+7 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Guest House & Resort
• Transport Private Vehicle
• Age Range 18-75 yrs

• Starts Sofia, Bulgaria
• Ends Sofia, Bulgaria

Bulgaria: Rodopi Mountains

• Activities Wildlife & Trekking and Hiking Wildlife , Trekking and Hiking & Safari 'data-more-tripid='7834'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Bus & Minibus
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,098
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 208
• Total Price from: US$ 1,890
• Jun 08 Only 3 seats left
• Jul 27 Only 8 seats left

Bulgaria: Realm of the Brown Bear

• Activities Wildlife & Bird watching Wildlife , Bird watching & Safari 'data-more-tripid='7962'>+1 more
• Transport Bus
• Sep 07 Only 1 seat left
• Oct 12 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Madalena, Portugal
• Ends Azores, Portugal

Walking in the Azores

• Activities Wildlife & Trekking and Hiking Wildlife , Trekking and Hiking , Nature and bush walks , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Safari 'data-more-tripid='7915'>+3 more
• Transport Ferry & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,223
• Special Deal (7%): - US$ 223
• Total Price from: US$ 3,000
• Jun 15 Only 2 seats left
• Jul 20 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Tallinn, Estonia
• Ends Vilnius, Lithuania

Walk Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania

• Activities Walking tours & Cultural, religious and historic sites Walking tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , National parks , Wildlife & Safari 'data-more-tripid='17194'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Ferry, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 16-79 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,740
• Special Deal (9%): - US$ 160
• Total Price from: US$ 1,580
• May 25 Only 5 seats left
• Jun 08 Only 2 seats left

• Starts Split, Croatia
• Ends Dubrovnik, Croatia

Sailing Croatia - Split to Dubrovnik

• Activities Chill out & Sailing, yachting and motor boating Chill out , Sailing, yachting and motor boating , Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Safari 'data-more-tripid='4904'>+3 more
• Accommodation Yacht Cabin & Hotel
• Transport Yacht & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,249
• Special Deal (50%): - US$ 1,125
• Total Price from: US$ 1,124
• May 25 Only 1 seat left
• Jun 01 Only 2 seats left

• Starts Zagreb, Croatia

Discover the Balkans

• Activities Chill out & Cultural, religious and historic sites Chill out , Cultural, religious and historic sites , City sightseeing , Wildlife & Safari 'data-more-tripid='4906'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Villa
• Transport Boat, Bus, Minibus, Ferry & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,999
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 600
• Total Price from: US$ 3,399
• Jun 02 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 16 Only 1 seat left

• Starts Rome, Italy
• Ends Rome, Italy

Local Living Italy—Tuscany San Gimignano

• Activities Wildlife & Cultural, religious and historic sites Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Countryside and village visits & Safari 'data-more-tripid='4942'>+2 more
• Transport Train & Bus
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,649
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 248
• Total Price from: US$ 1,401
• May 26 Only 1 seat left

• Starts Helsinki, Finland
• Ends Helsinki, Finland

Spitsbergen Highlights: Expedition in Brief

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Polar expeditions and cruise & Wildlife Polar expeditions and cruise , Wildlife & Safari 'data-more-tripid='7797'>+1 more
• Transport Flight
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Jun 25 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Barcelona, Spain
• Ends Barcelona, Spain

Walking in the Pyrenees

• Activities Walking tours & Natural landmarks sightseeing Walking tours , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Wildlife & Safari 'data-more-tripid='17343'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge & Resort
• Transport Bus & Taxi
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Jun 29 Only 5 seats left
• Aug 03 Only 4 seats left

• Starts Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Ends Split, Croatia

Sailing Croatia - Dubrovnik to Split

• Activities Chill out & Sailing, yachting and motor boating Chill out , Sailing, yachting and motor boating , Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Safari 'data-more-tripid='4903'>+3 more
• Transport Yacht, Boat & Private Vehicle
• Jun 01 Only 3 seats left

• Starts Belfast, Ireland
• Ends Dublin, Ireland

Northern & Southern Ireland

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Wildlife Natural landmarks sightseeing , Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Party and nightlife , Safari & Beach 'data-more-tripid='5505'>+4 more
• Accommodation Hostel & Hotel
• Transport Ferry, Train, Bus, Private Vehicle & Minibus
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,840
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 768
• Total Price from: US$ 3,072
• May 31 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 07 Only 4 seats left

• Starts Reykjavik, Iceland
• Ends Reykjavik, Iceland

East Greenland and Iceland Northern Lights

• Activities Polar expeditions and cruise & Wildlife Polar expeditions and cruise , Wildlife & Safari 'data-more-tripid='23362'>+1 more
• Accommodation Ship Cabin
• Transport Cruise Ship
• Age Range 8-99 yrs
• Sep 20 10+ seats left

Europe Safari Reviews

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Best Wildlife Holidays in Europe

The Safari Experience in Europe

Have you always wanted to go on a safari holiday and take a walk on the wild side? Imagine being meters away from rhinos, tigers, lions, and giraffes without having to leave Europe! We have highlighted some of the best wildlife holidays Europe has to offer.

The Netherlands: The Wild Side

We start the list off with Safari Resort Beekse Bergen , a large safari park situated in the Netherlands with its own resort that you can stay in. The safari park is home to fierce lions, beautiful zebras, lofty giraffes, and much more so make sure to always have your camera ready! Eagles, falcons, vultures, and other birds of prey can be seen in action at the bird’s safari where you can also learn more about them. Entrance to the safari and a number of other fun activities is free when you stay at the resort, which is why we highly recommend it. You can also book your accommodation with them from our website which comes with different specials, simply click here !

You can choose from different types of safaris to spice up your animal holidays and get up close and personal with the animals such as boat, bus, walking, and car. Have you ever fed a tiger? How about an African elephant? Safari Resort Beekse Bergen makes this possible during special feeding times that are instructed by a ranger who also explains the eating habits and diets of the animals. There is also plenty to do for the little guests at this family-friendly resort, they can swim in the indoor jungle pool, or run around the playground. On a relaxed evening you can also decide to go fishing in the designated fishing areas which include over 70 hectares of clear water. Bikes can also be rented from the reception, so you can explore the resort from the paved-out cycle path.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BnYiFskjpkU/

Germany: The Big Five

The Serengeti Park in Hodenhagen is not one to miss for the ultimate African safari experience with over 1000 wild animals. Here you will also find the Big Five family which includes lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and the Indian buffalo which is just as majestic as the African buffalo, perfect for wildlife watching holidays!

Serengeti Park is split up into four major parts which each give you a unique experience. The Animal World is the largest zone and offers an exciting adventure which you can discover with the guided bus tours or even with your own car! The Water World can be explored by foot and is mainly based on water animals such as swans, ducks, and geese. There are also other fun attractions such as a giant pirate ship and a log flume. The Monkey World presents twenty monkey species including gorillas, chimpanzees, and squirrel monkeys. The final section is the leisure world which is Serengeti Park’s very own amusement park. The park has different rides as well as shows making it the perfect vacation with unlimited family fun.

To top it all off, the park has different African themed accommodation, each with something different to offer. For instance, the Masai Mara lodges let you safely observe the animals from the terrace of your accommodation.

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France: From Birds to Reptiles

Any nature-loving family would enjoy a trip to the Réserve Africaine in Sigean which is home to over 3000 animals including wild birds and reptiles. A visit through the entire park takes approximately 4 hours, making it ideal for a day trip with the family. The safari begins by car which roughly takes an hour to drive past the buffalos, zebras, lions, giraffe, and other well-known wild mammals. This then brings you through the salt lakes where you will find flamingos, pelicans, and storks. A look closer will also reveal the alligators, turtles, and other members of the reptilian family.

Curious as to what buffalos eat for breakfast? The park has a schedule with daily events that you can view and partake in such as watching the animals during their feeding times. The little explorers can also interact with baby goats under the supervision of an adult. You can also have a picnic with your own food during the lunch hour at a safe distance yet still close to the animals.

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Spain: The Animal Kingdom

Selwo Aventura in Estepona lets you experience and interact with animals from all over the world without stepping out of Europe. Over 2000 animals including cheetahs, buffaloes, hyena, and even bats have made this park their habitat. The park offers wildlife tours that take place in an all-terrain vehicle with open tops to give you a personal experience with the animals. The vehicles are accompanied by tour guides who lead you through the experience and leave you having gained more knowledge about your favourite animals.

The park is divided into different sections such as the Bird Canyon which houses storks, ibises, hornbill, and other wild bird species. The Central Village which hosts some of the great African mammals such as giraffes and wildebeest, and Nature’s Portico which offers tropical vegetation to provide a habitat for lemurs, meerkats, gazelles, and others.

The park also has different adventure activities that you can partake in when you are not out on safari . How about walking through a 65-metre bridge which crosses over beautiful vegetation as well as the Iberian Lynx habitat. You can practice your archery skills at the special archery field or hop around the trampolines which have facilities that let you jump up to eight metres high! Experience the ultimate thrill by zip-lining over the lake next to the primate park and flamingo area.

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Wildlife Parks and zoos in France

• Theme Parks

There are some wonderful wildlife parks in France.

From zoos in chateaux set in fabulous surroundings to zoos in cities or for something a bit different how about watching the animals just metres away from the balcony of your hotel…

Here is our pick of the best wildlife parks and zoos in France:

Zoo Parc de Beauval, between Tours and Vierzon, Loire

Pandas named Yuanzi and Huan Huan arrived in from the city of Chengdu in January 2012. They are the first pandas to be sent to France since the death of Yen Yen in 2000 and there are only 16 other zoos outside of China which have giant pandas on show.

There are over 4500 animals at Beauval Zoo – the largest wildlife collection in France, the zoo has been classed by Forbes Traveler as one of the 15 most beautiful zoos in the world. There are big cats including lion, Bengal tigers, snow leopards, jaguar and pumas; a gorilla complex and many other primates; giraffe, white rhinoceros, elephants and many other species and finally a large aquarium with over 1500 different types of fish from Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

The zoo also offers a number of programmes such as “trainer for a day” – you’ll need to organise this in advance but for a day out for the family with a difference this is an exciting opportunity to get up close to the animals.  The day includes feeding animals such as giraffes and meerkats as well as the birds and penguins, preparing food for racoons and baboons and distributing their meals, possibly feeding the reptiles (season dependent) and various other activities.

The zoo’s website gives more information on the programmes and opening times etc.

Cerva Safari Park, Lisieux, Normandy

Just three hours from Calais or an hour from Caen ferry port, the zoo has over 800 animals which live in 120 acres of natural surroundings. There’s a safari train and you’ll see lions, tigers, giraffes, bears, monkeys, kangaroos, zebras and panthers and many other species.  Although it’s not the biggest zoo in France, we’re featuring it because it offers something a bit different.  Attached to the zoo is the Four Seasons Park village which overlooks a small valley and lake where Indian Rhinoceros, Antelopes, and Siamong Gibbons live only a few metres away.  Wallaby and Deer roam freely around the lodges and the lake is home to many exotic birds such as Pelicans, Cranes and Ibis. If you stay at the lodges here you can also book some time with the animals, working alongside the keepers to prepare the meals and feed the animals, always accompanied English speaking guides.

Find more information on the lodges and for the safari park .

Réserve Africaine de Sigean, near Narbonne in the Languedoc.

3,800 animals in a huge area of natural Mediterranean environment, one of Europe’s oldest safari parks and the biggest tourist attractions in the area.

Réserve Africaine de Sigean is a huge semi-natural wildlife park located in the South of France, between Narbonne and Perpignan, in the town of Sigean on the Mediterranean coast.   There are more than 3,800 animals (around 2000 birds, 900 mammals and 900 reptiles) on nearly 300 hectares.  This is one of the oldest nature parks in Europe and is a grand tourist attraction.

The zoo manages a successful conservation programme and since opening more than 10,000 births have been registered there, some of which are rare including the pink-backed pelican, Grevy’s zebra and Hartmann’s mountain zebra, cheetah, African elephant, wild dog and chimpanzee.

Visiting the park includes a drive through area or you can hire a minibus and guide for up to 15 people starting at a cost of around €100.

For more information the Zoo’s website has an English language section.

Amnéville Zoo, Moselle

Described as a new generation zoo, with an educational orientation and aimed at protecting species. It welcomes more than half a million visitors every year, and it ranks it second in the list of most visited zoos in France.   The tourist board calls it one of the most beautiful zoos in France and there are some  600 animals from 5 continents.  We think this one is high on the list for French families but if you like zoos – you’re very likely to have a great day out at Amnéville Zoo  .

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The 12 Best Zoos in Europe to Add to Your Bucketlist in 2024

Looking for the best zoos in Europe? Look no further !

Europe is home to some of the world’s most stunning and renowned zoos. From the world-famous Berlin Zoo, with its vast selection of species, to the breathtaking Edinburgh Zoo, Europe provides a plethora of diverse and dynamic options.

Every time I go on a European city break, my and my daughter I end up visiting the zoo in that city on one of the days (and having an amazing time). Here are the BEST zoos in Europe.

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Table of Contents

Best Zoos in Europe

Each zoo in Europe is unique. In this article, you will find a selection of the best European zoos worth visiting at least once, from Berlin Zoo, which has the world’s most extensive collection of animal species and Pairi Daizais – one of the best zoos with pandas in Europe!

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1. Vienna Zoo – The Best Zoo in Europe

The Vienna Zoo is located at Schönbrunn Palace. It is considered one of the oldest in Europe and the world. The history of this zoo dates to 1752 when Emperor Franz I ordered a menagerie to be organized on the territory of the residence.

The park is considered one of the most modern in terms of technical support and the best in terms of living conditions, which are as close as possible to the usual habitat of animals.

Vienna Zoo is the first zoo with a natural insemination panda birth in Europe.

Schönbrunn Zoo is one of the best zoos in the world. The big collection of more than 600 animal species also includes a fantastic rainforest house.

Also, Vienna Zoo is home to animals whose population is on the verge of extinction. Here you can see with your own eyes very rare species, an “African panorama”, the “Indonesian jungle”, and more, as well as have daily animal talks and take nighttime tours.

2. Whipsnade Zoo – The Biggest Zoo in Europe

The UK’s largest zoo, Whipsnade Zoo, is located on 243 hectares of beautiful parkland in the Chiltern Hills, north of London. You can view more of the best UK zoos here.

While visiting this popular attraction for kids near London, you can get up close and personal with a staggering array of creatures.

More than 2,500 animals live here, many of which are endangered in the wild. Also, the zoo itself is breeding endangered species. , You can see many of them, from big stars like lions, tigers, rhinos and elephants to smaller species like penguins, lemurs and red pandas.

Also, in one of the greatest European zoos, the Whipsnade Zoo, you can meet tropical insects and reptiles at the Discovery Center and Butterfly House or take a trip to see your favourite mammals on the free train Jumbo Express.

For a unique experience, you can book an overnight stay at the Lookout Lodge on the zoo grounds.

3. Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo, which is in Alton-by-Chester (Cheshire, England), is one of the best zoos in Britain. This is the sixth-largest zoo in the world and is very popular among tourists.

The founder of the zoo, George Mottershead, in the past, was a military man.

From early childhood, he dreamed of opening his own zoo, which would not be like other zoos.

He often saw the conditions in which animals are kept and wanted to show that they can be fine even in captivity. That’s how one of the best zoos in Europe was created.

Chester Zoo contains a minimum number of enclosures and cages, and special barriers and ditches have been formed to protect visitors. Its territory is as close as possible to the natural habitats of animals.

The zoo is home to about 400 species of animals, including elephants and black rhinoceros. Even the conditions of the rainforests of India are organized for them. For jaguars, the zoo made zones imitating the savannah.

4. Zoo Parc de Beauval, France

The Zoo parc de Beauval in the Loire Valley is one of the most beautiful zoos in the world, which is worth putting on your agenda for a family trip. Here you can admire kangaroos, koalas, okapis, tigers and white lions, Indian rhinos, sea lions and even giant pandas.

Zoo de Buval covers over 35 hectares and is home to 10,000 different animals of 600 different species. The zoo conducts active zoological research and supports more than 40 programs to preserve the planet’s biodiversity.

The Zoo du Buval was built thanks to the dream of Francoise Delors, whose passion was to save animals. The history of the Zoo de Buval began in 1980 with a small ornithological park. Over time, the zoo expanded, its collections grew, and tropical greenhouses appeared.

At the same time, the number of education courses and research programs increased. The results of these programs are presented not only in the form of scientific reports but also in the form of educational and entertainment shows and thematic lectures.

5. Prague Zoo

Prague zoological garden is one of the best zoos not only in Europe but in the whole world. The Prague Zoo is located in a picturesque part of the city, on the territory of the Troja Park. It is next to the Botanical Garden and Troj Castle.

The zoo first opened in 1931. It contains 113 mammals, 159 species of birds, 34 species of reptiles, and about 300 species of plants. The zoo even has galápagos tortoises and a polar bear!

Prague Zoo specializes in the restoration of endangered species. When entering Prague Zoo, you can see the prints of the most famous inhabitants of the menagerie throughout its history.

The total area is 60 hectares, 50 of which are occupied by the area for animals. The zoo is also unusual in its structure: it is located on two levels, connected by a funicular

. The living conditions of animals are as close as possible to natural ones, there are practically no cages here (except for predators), and the enclosures are mainly equipped with glass panels.

Thanks to this, there is free contact with the zoo’s inhabitants, which makes visiting the zoo even more exciting. A kids’ petting zoo is the favourite among kids.

6. Pairi Daiza Zoo, Belgium

Pairi Daiza Zoo is one of the best zoos worldwide. It is a private zoo and a picturesque botanical garden in Belgium, the commune of Brugelet.

The zoo contains more than 4,000 animals and participates in the European environmental program, contributing to the conservation of rare species.

The area of the park territory is 65 hectares. This beautiful zoo is one of the most interesting places for a family visit.

The Pairi Daiza Zoo was created as a bird park in 1993. Since 2000 it has become a home for other animals – otters, meerkats, alligators, and polar bears.

Since then, the owners of Pairi Daiza began to replenish the collection of animals actively and opened an aquarium in 2001.

After 8 years, in 2009, an amazing Buddhist-themed garden opened on 4 hectares of the park’s territory. Also, the zoo has the largest aviary and kids’ educational farm.

7. Paignton Zoo Environmental Park, England

Paignton Zoo Environmental Park has one of the best zoos in England and one of the largest in Europe.

It was founded in 1923 by millionaire Herbert Whitley. Since 2001, the park has been reconstructed, and now the entire infrastructure of the zoo meets European standards.

Today, the animal world of Paignton Zoo Environmental Park is diverse and unique.

Since its opening, Paignton Park has set high goals: protecting the environment, flora and fauna.

The park’s pride is a huge collection of plants from around the globe. Some of the species are bred in the park itself.

8. Edinburgh Zoo, Scotland

The Edinburgh Zoo is one of the best in Europe, covering an area of 33 hectares on the southern slope of the picturesque Corstorphine Hill. The main purpose of its creation in 1913 was to preserve endangered species.

About 600 thousand tourists visit this fantastic zoo every year. Previously it used to be called the Scottish National Zoological Park.

All animals here live in an environment as close to nature as possible. In total, there are approximately 1080 individuals in the zoo, from exotic animals to domestic animals.

The Edinburgh Zoo has several chimpanzees, penguins, and giant pandas in this territory. The first pair of giant pandas arrived at the zoo in 2011.

The zoo administration planted 25 varieties of bamboo so that the animals feel comfortable and start breeding here.

Much earlier, in 1919, penguins first appeared at the Edinburgh Zoo. Tourists can admire the penguins through the glass walls of the huge pool, where they love to swim.

9. Berlin Zoological Garden

Berlin zoological garden is the oldest and largest (both in terms of area and number of animals) zoo in Germany; it opened on the site of the former royal pheasant yard in 1844 in the Berlin district of Tiergarten.

It occupies an area of 35 hectares, is home to 1,500 species of animals (about 17,000 individuals) and is the best zoo in Germany.

The spacious and beautiful park, immersed in greenery in the warm season, is one of the most popular places for recreation for city residents and tourists.

In addition to interestingly designed and easy-to-view enclosures, visitors are offered a lot of numbers and scientific information on stands next to the animals.

Berlin Zoo has a special children’s zone where they can feed goats and sheep, participate in special events, and visit a pavilion with monkeys, nocturnal animals, and an aquarium.

Here you will find all the popular animals – penguins, elephants, red deer, including less-known species of rare deer.

10. Innsbruck Alpine Zoo, Tyrol

The Alpine Zoo in Innsbruck, Western Austria, is located on the Nordkette mountain, just a 15-20 minute walk from the city centre.

It is one of the best European zoos. Over 2000 animals of 150 species live in the natural environment on an area of almost 5 hectares.

The founder of the Alpine Zoo was the famous Austrian zoologist Professor Hans Psenner.

While still a young scientist, he proposed the idea of creating a zoological garden in Austria, which would mainly contain animals in the Alps. In 1962 Alpine Zoo opened its doors to visitors.

During the first three months of operation, the zoo received 30000 people; by the beginning of the 21st century, it reached 300 thousand people.

In 2000, with the support of the municipality of Innsbruck, the zoo underwent a significant renovation: the area where the wild animals were kept was expanded, and large-scale facilities for birds of prey were built.

11. London Zoo

London Zoo is the best zoo in the UK and also the oldest zoo in Europe. It was founded in 1828 by the London Zoological Society. At first, it was available only for scientific research, and in 1847, it opened its doors to the general public.

Today so many animals live here! About 755 species numbering more than 16,000 individuals, including lemurs, giraffes, brown bears, and many more. The London Zoo has been a pioneer in many ways.

The first aquarium, serpentarium and “children’s zoo” appeared here, where children can get to know and communicate with pets and attend exciting activities.

London Zoo is a very nice place for walking and getting to know its inhabitants.

A minimum of cages and nets, spacious enclosures and pavilions that allow you to get as close as possible and see non-dangerous animals, exciting educational programs and performances – all this is the famous London Zoo!

12. ARTIS Zoo Amsterdam

The Artis Zoo in Amsterdam is one of the best zoos in Europe. It was founded in 1838 by the independent association Natura Artis Magistra (Latin for “Nature is the teacher of the art”). For the first 100 years after that, only members of this association could visit it.

Its area is approximately 15 hectares, on which there are cages and aviaries with more than 900 species of animals and birds. Children will be especially impressed by a visit to the zoo in Amsterdam.

There are a lot of open enclosures with beautiful animals, separated from visitors only by a deep moat, and a petting zoo with small farm animals.

The zoo can be proud of the world’s second-largest aquarium in terms of the number of fish and marine life and an extensive collection of exotic birds and insects – more than 200 species.

13. Budapest Zoo

Situated uniquely in the heart of Budapest’s City Park, the Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and dedication to wildlife conservation.

Dating back to 1866, this zoo holds the prestigious title of being the oldest in Hungary and ranks amongst the world’s most ancient zoological parks.

With its gates opening to over a million visitors annually, it’s no wonder that the Budapest Zoo has remained a beloved attraction for both locals and tourists alike.

Its central location, a rarity for most world-renowned zoos, offers a juxtaposition of urban life against the vibrant backdrop of nature and biodiversity.

The park proudly houses 1,072 animal species, including rare and endangered ones.

Notably, visitors are welcomed by the majestic Persian Leopard, the playful Golden Lion Tamarin, and the imposing White Rhino, each telling a unique tale of the world’s diverse habitats and the challenges they face.

Beyond its fauna, the Budapest Zoo also takes pride in its botanical gardens.

As visitors traverse the walkways, they are treated to a lush display of flora that complements the animal exhibits, making every step an education in both plant and animal life.

Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden has some amazing conservation projects, working tirelessly for 150 years in the preservation of species and education of its visitors.

As part of a global network, the zoo’s commitment to safeguarding endangered species and their habitats remains unwavering.

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Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

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• 6 Safari Parks In The...

Safari Parks in the UK to Visit With Your Family

Freelance Travel and Music Writer

Safari parks are a fantastic way to spend a day out with the kids as they allow you to get up close and personal with animals you wouldn’t normally see on this side of the Atlantic. From the likes of Blair Drummond up in Scotland to Port Lympne in Kent, here are some of the best safari parks in the UK to visit with your family, all of which are within easy reach of most major cities.

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West Midland Safari Park

Just under an hour’s drive from central Birmingham is West Midland Safari Park – one of the country’s leading safari parks in the UK and one of the best places to get up close to exotic animals. Their Safari Drive-through takes you across the ‘African Plains’ and ‘Wild Asia’ where you and the family can spot zebras, elephants, giraffes, lions, buffalos and so much more. When you’re finished with the drive-through, there are plenty of other discovery trails, fun areas and a theme park on-site to keep the kids entertained.

Woburn Safari Park

With both a road safari and foot safari at Woburn in Milton Keynes, the kids are sure to be entertained for the day. While you can see the rare continental animals from the comfort of your car, take the foot safari through designated areas featuring meerkats, elephants, sea lions, penguins and so much more. There’s also a play area for the younger kids and the popular high ropes course Go Ape for the teens (and adults who want to monkey around too!).

Knowsley Safari

This Merseyside safari park is sure to be a hit with the entire family. Situated in Knowsley, near St Helens, visitors can experience this safari whether in their own car or by hopping on the park’s Baboon Bus. Away from the normal road and foot safaris that most parks offer, Knowsley also has a wet safari on its boating lake, which you can row around and see all the wildlife that calls it home.

Longleat Safari Park

More than just a safari park, Longleat is one of the premier visitor attractions in the UK. Famed for its stunning Elizabethan house and grounds – with the biggest maze in the country – Longleat Safari Park is definitely worth the trip to Wiltshire. Proudly the very first drive-through safari park outside of Africa, visitors to Longleat can expect to get up close and personal with some of the most endangered animals in the world.

Blair Drummond Safari Park

Situated near the central Scottish city of Stirling , Blair Drummond is a 120-acre adventure and safari park packed with activities to keep the whole family busy. With a large drive-through exotic animal reserve, sea lion presentations and bird of prey displays, we guarantee that the kids won’t get bored. For something a little different, take a boat trip to Chimp Island or take on the Flying Fox, a zip wire that goes across the river with the stunning Blair Drummond House as your backdrop.

Port Lympne Reserve

Port Lympne is a conservation charity in Kent dedicated to protecting wildlife with one clear mission: commitment to conservaation. At Port Lympne , visitors can explore over 600 acres of parkland and wildlife, with a number of exotic and endangered animals on show, all of which have been rescued to protect the species’ future. A true safari experience, all animals at Port Lympne are in a ‘wild’ environment rather than in viewing areas or cages, giving them the best possible lives before being reintroduced back into the wild. Port Lympne also offers a number of brilliant experiences, including animal encounters, private safaris and keeper days.

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Six of the biggest and best safari parks around the world

From spotting tigers in india to watching elephants in africa, here are some of the best places to witness wildlife in its natural habitat.

A lion roams the Masai Mara game reserve.

It's hard to find a travel bucket list that doesn't contain a safari of some kind, and rightly so. There are few travel experiences that can top seeing wild animals roam freely in their natural habitat.

From spotting tigers in India to watching the great migration in Africa, there are myriad ways to experience a safari. If you are looking for inspiration, here are some of the biggest and best safari experiences from around the world.

Ranthambore National Park, India

Located near the town of Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan, northern India, Ranthambore is one of the best places in the world to spot tigers. The area, which spans about 1,335 square kilometres, is bounded to the north by the Banas River and to the south by the Chambal River, with the historic Ranthambore Fort, after which it is named, located within the park.

The park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including Indian leopard, Indian elephant, wild water buffalo, gaur (Indian bison), wild boar, spotted deer, striped hyena and Bengal fox. Its biggest draw, however, is its Bengal tiger population. Thanks to Project Tiger, an initiative started by the Indian government in 1973, the area has a designated tiger sanctuary. The year 2021 was a record one for breeding at the park, with 21 new tiger cubs born.

Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

Covering an area of about 979 square km, Yala is Sri Lanka’s most visited national park. The area, which was first designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900, is made up of six separate national parks and three wildlife sanctuaries. Among the animals that can be found there are sloth bears, saltwater crocodiles, wild water buffalo and more than 215 species of birds. The park is also important for the conservation of Sri Lankan elephants and Sri Lankan leopards, both of which reside at Yala in strong numbers.

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Measuring about 14,600 square km, Hwange National Park is the largest nature reserve in Zimbabwe. Founded in 1929, the park, which sits to the north-west of the country, close to Victoria Falls, is home to 100 mammal and 400 bird species, including 19 large herbivores and eight large carnivores.

The park has a particularly high number of elephants, thanks to successful breeding programmes, and also has two national protection programmes, one for leopards and one for African wild dogs. Within the national park, there are dozens of public and privately operated camp areas, to accommodate the hundreds of thousands of tourists who flock here each year.

Masai Mara, Kenya

Located in the south-west of Kenya, Masai Mara is one of the best-known wildlife conservation areas in the world. It spans about 1,510 square km and is home to spectacular diversity in terms of wildlife. Large numbers of lions, cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, zebras and more can be found in the park, unconfined and free to roam the vast wilderness that stretches for miles on end.

The Pantanal, Brazil

The Pantanal is part national park, part Unesco World Heritage site, and covers about ​​195,000 square km in Brazil. It competes with the Amazon as the premier wildlife destination in South America. However, as the world’s largest tropical wetland, it also boasts the highest concentration of wildlife on the continent. Expect to see everything from birds to jaguars and giant anteaters to green anacondas.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kruger National Park is located in north-eastern South Africa and is one of Africa’s largest game reserves, known for its high density of wild animals, including lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes. It spans 19,633 square kilometres and has 21 rest camps, two private lodge concessions and 15 private safari lodges on site. Kruger Park offers something for everyone; from budget-friendly accommodation to luxury safari lodges in private concessions.

Read more: Sharjah Safari park opens: everything you need to know

Sharjah Safari covers an area of eight square kilometres. All photos: Antonie Robertson / The National

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I visited 5 of the best safari parks in Africa. The trip was filled with surprises, and there are a few things I wish I'd known before leaving.

• I visited five of Kenya's best safari parks to see some of  Africa's most famous animals in the wild.
• There were many aspects of the safari that surprised me despite the research I did before my trip.
• I was surprised by many things, including how long I spent sitting in safari cars. 

Seeing some of Africa's most famous animals in the wild has been on my bucket list for years. With adventure travel on the rise, I decided to take the plunge and make the 20+ hour flight to Africa to visit some of Kenya's best safari parks.

Masai Mara is arguably the most famous for big-cat sightings, but Amboseli National Park , Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, Nairobi National Park, and Hell's Gate National Park are also must-see reserves teeming with wildlife.

I did lots of research beforehand but found I was unprepared for many things I experienced while on safari — and there are things I'll definitely do differently the next time I go.

From what I should have worn to what seeing the animals was really like, here's what surprised me most about going on safari in Kenya.

I sat in the safari vehicle for about 8 hours every day

Between a morning and afternoon game drive, I spent about eight hours in the car daily. It was shocking to see the low number of daily steps on my Oura ring.

I started doing yoga at the end of the night to loosen up my hips. My airplane pillow also helped me stay comfortable, especially during the seven-hour drives to other parks.

My shoes were off for most of the drives

In hindsight, I should have worn sandals on my drives. Most safari vehicles have small windows and a top that lifts up, and you're frequently standing on the chairs to get a better view.

We took off our shoes when we got into the car so we were ready to hop up on the chairs at a moment's notice.

I had lots of early mornings and bedtimes.

The best times for safaris are in the mornings and at dusk, and sometimes, we had 4 a.m. start times. The lack of sleep , paired with the heat, made me eager to get to bed early.

I'm not a morning person, but I preferred the early drives for the animal activity (and incredible sunrises) we saw. We used the less-ideal safari hours during the day to nap, do other activities in the area, or drive to other parks.

Many animals can be difficult to spot due to distance or camouflage

We had our fair share of close-up sightings, but many of the animals we wanted to see were far away and sometimes not immediately obvious to the naked eye.

We ditched our iPhones and used binoculars and someone's camera viewfinder to get a closer look.

A pair of binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens are essential for getting the best view (and pictures) possible.

There were long periods of time with minimal animal sightings

Safari drives can be frustrating because you can't control what animals you'll see, how far away they are, and how long the sighting will last. But being patient can be rewarding.

During one dusk drive, we spent three hours searching for a pride of lions without any luck. Finally, as the sun set in the last half hour, we stumbled upon three female lions napping, a leopard, and giraffes.

Many of the animals are sleeping during the day

I expected to see animals moving around or hunting, but many were resting during the day. It was only when dusk approached that they started to slowly stake out a spot by the grazing herds.

If I go on safari again, I'll book a night drive so I can see how the lions and other animals act during their peak hours of activity.

My view was largely out of my control

Whenever a less common animal like a lion or cheetah is spotted, a traffic jam of safari vehicles speed over and line up, vying for the best view.

What you see — and sometimes, if you see anything at all — can depend on your driver and what vantage point they can get.

Your view can also depend on your position in the car. I spent a lot of time scrambling around to catch a sighting (and a photo, if I was lucky).

Prey is plentiful, but seeing any action is unlikely

Gazelles and impalas were everywhere, so it was surprising to learn that the lions might not eat for days.

Our driver told us the best thing he's seen on safari was a cheetah hunting a gazelle, and then a pride of lions swooping in to steal his meal. However, these kinds of sightings are rare.

Predators need to consider everything from the direction the wind is blowing to the length of the grass when trying to sneak up on their prey. Many hunts are unsuccessful, so seeing one in person is unlikely.

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